EVERYONE in Stirling is being encouraged to keep their Eyes Open for children at risk during the school holidays.

As Stirling Council schools prepare to ring the end of term bell on Friday June 28 for the holidays, a national child protection organisation is urging everyone to be extra observant to help protect potentially vulnerable children while school’s out for summer.

Child Protection Committees Scotland, a nation-wide grouping of child protection professionals hopes that members of the public will keep their eyes open and play a part to keep children safe from harm during the long break in the school routine.

Convener of Stirling Council’s Children and Young People Committee, Councillor Susan McGill said: “Most children in the Stirling area look forward to having lots of fun and free time during the school holidays but for some families the summer break can bring extra stress and pressure.

“In some cases, children might not be looked after or supervised properly, and some might even experience serious neglect.

“The aim of this campaign is to encourage people to support each other, and be aware of the stresses and pressures that can result in harmful behaviour.”

CPCScotland stresses that everyone in every community across the country is responsible for child welfare.

By taking a more watchful, active Eyes Open approach, CPCScotland suggests that all members of the public can play a part to protect our children.

Vice Convener of Stirling Council’s Children and Young People Committee, Cllr Margaret Brisley said: “We’re simply asking people in the Stirling area to keep their eyes open for tell-tale signs that all is not well.

“Signs that a child might be at risk could include being alone and unsupervised, being out and about at all times of day or night or even going into ‘party’ flats. A vulnerable child might be very dirty or persistently hungry, or have parents who are drunk in charge of them. If you’re at all worried, it’s important to take action.”

If you have seen something and have concerns about a child or children, CPCScotland are clear that it’s much better to say something than do nothing - your intervention could help a child at risk.

Cllr McGill added: “You can ask the child if they’re okay or even offer the family some support. Or, if the situation appears more serious and you’re very worried contact Stirling Council’s social work department, or the police.”